If I checked in with God as as often as I glance for new information on my devices, I would have an amazing spiritual life.
Recent studies have shown that people check their phones between 85-150 times a day. Astounding, isn’t it?
And that doesn’t even take into account the hours we gaze at the computer screen.
I have to admit that trying to reduce my “device time” (or should it be divisive time?) poses a challenge.
God keeps nudging me though – with my guiding word for the year, Presence.
Little did I know how often this word would appear in print – and invade my thoughts.
So many of my devotional readings emphasize the value of 1. being aware and grateful for God’s constant, devoted Presence, and 2. the importance of spending time with Him.
We are often wrapped so tightly in our own lives that we can’t shed the thin veneer that covers us.
But oh, how sitting in God’s Presence can help us begin.
Just a few moments of quiet prayer, asking Him to help clear our minds so we can be more aware of His will and purposes can virtually expand our days, helping us stay calm and centered as we go about our normal routines.
God delicately unties the knots and loosens the pieces of tape that prevent us from opening ourselves to Him.
And think of this….God is always online…ready and waiting to hear from us, to be with us.
I’m thinking of opening a FaceLook account; one where I can set my sights upon His Face, where I can check in to see if my thoughts and actions are in line with His ways.
And where the only reinforcement I need is the knowledge that He.Is.There.
I pray that you can take a moment to be refreshed and recharged in His Presence.
And that He may surprise and enlighten you as you shed your outer wrappings.
The prize of a winning lottery ticket remains worthless until it is cashed in. The contents of a gift remain useless until it is opened. You have been given the most incredible gift of all: God’s guiding presence in your life.
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You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence, and the pleasures of living with you forever. ~Psalm 16:11
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FaceLook account – great idea! “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Cor 3:18
People are always astounded when I say I don’t own a phone and I don’t want one. Everywhere I go now days, seeing adults and children staring into phones literally breaks my heart, particularly when our grandchildren come to visit. We are heading out tent camping with our son and daughter and their children to the Snowy Range in Wyoming to fly fish, sit around the fire, star gaze, hike and cook outdoors which we’ve been doing for years! Grandpa started the grandchildren fly fishing when they were about 3 years old and later playing nickel ante poker and they continually beat us. And no cell phone reception up there!!! Yeah!
Wow! Sounds like a wonderful trip, Deb! And good for you that you are encouraging your grandchildren to appreciate God’s beauty in nature. (and no phones!!!!)
….so what we all need to read..’hear’ dear friend….just to ‘be still…and know He is God’….as it is in those moments…He takes us onto Himself….so appreciate your sharing of words…XO
And thank you for sharing yours, Frannie! I love that your heart is always so close to Him…xo
I recently realized I’d stopped getting email notifications since I changed my email address I’ve had a wonderful “catch-up,” reading Holding the Fort(y), which, thankfully is the only one I missed….. After reading this blog, I feel so glad to be back in the loop (rather, circle) of thought-and heart-filled Words By Toni! “Seek My Face always,” He says, and you remind me that His face is that precious part of His presence, and His presence is…………….well, YOU said it so much better than I! Thank you, Toni…….
Thank you, Betty! You are a continual reminder that Seeking Him is paramount!
This word is a gift to me as well. As is your writing.
I feel the same…about your word(s), and your wonderful writings!